Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessments

As a trauma specialist I am often asked - is this a trauma presentation and response, is this Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or is this something else? As such, I am trained in recognising both and can offer ASD assessments.

Sometimes an ASD assessment is requested but it becomes apparent is not clinically appropriate. Before proceeding with an assessment we will have a free telephone consultation to discuss your current concerns, get some initial information and determine if an ASD assessment is appropriate.

What happens during an ASD assessment?

As it is best practice is to use a multidisciplinary approach, my ASD assessments are conducted by both myself and an HCPC registered Psychologist. This ensures that our assessment and clinical decision are both valid and reliable.

An ASD assessment compromises of two parts:

1) The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS2). This is considered the 'gold standard' assessment recommended by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) as part of the diagnostic assessment process for ASD.

The ADOS2 takes between 60 and 120 minutes to administer. It assesses communication, social interaction and imaginative use of materials and various tasks designed to elicit behaviours that are directly relevant to a diagnosis of ASD. Both assessors will be in the room at the same time. It is preferable if any parent / guardian is not in the room, however they can wait close by if required. This part of the assessment has to be conducted in person.

2) The second part of the assessment is the Autism Diagnostic Interview - Revised (ADI-R). The ADI-R takes between 1.5 hours and 3 hours to complete. Parents / caregivers are asked about various areas and domains of their child's developmental history such as early development, current language and communication skills, social and play development and their interests. The child does not have to present for this part of the assessment and it can be conducted either in person or via video conferencing.

Using information from the above two assessments a clinical decision can be made as to whether you or your child meets the clinical diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder.

After the assessments are completed it is written up into a report. This report will discuss the outcome of the assessment and any clinical diagnosis. We aim to write up the report and get it to you within 28 days.

What if a clinical diagnosis is made?

A clinical diagnosis will be clearly written on the report you receive. A copy of this report can be sent (with your consent) to your GP and to any education establishment (such as school, college or university). There will be some recommendations of helpful resources you can access, and we can also refer into Reaching Families who are a West Sussex based support service for children with Special Education Needs.

There are also specialist ASD services in West Sussex which operate privately and do have a cost such as Aspens.

What if a clinical diagnosis is not made?

If a clinical diagnosis is not indicated from the assessment the report will outline why. Despite this, the report will identify any needs you or your child may have or may identify any further assessments we think might be beneficial to better understand your or their needs. This will be discussed with you during a follow up call once you have received the report.

How much does this cost?

Unfortunately, private ASD assessments are expensive. This is predominantly due to a mix of the actual time the assessments take, the time of the report write up, and any additional information we may have to obtain (such as from school) and the clinical expertise required to make any diagnosis or decisions. The total cost is likely to be around £2000, however please get in touch to discuss fees as it depends on you and your child's needs.